What info should I include? How do I go about mentioning a more generous FA offer I received from a peer school within the letter, so that the school would increase/match my FA? How would I go about discussing my family’s circumstances, or would I need to do this at all?
Are you sure the school is a peer school? (Similar or higher ranking, and not an in-state public for you or some similar type where you get a discount?).
Assuming it is comparable, then don’t write a paper letter. Email. Do NOT use the word match. Tell them you really want to attend, but that their cost of attendance is higher than your other top choice (I personally would not name the school), which is making it hard for you to choose them. Ask if they can please re-evaluate your FA offer. If you have any additional concrete info to offer up that was not in the paperwork you have already filled out (job loss, large medical bills, change in income, etc), include that as well. But things like you live in a high cost area, or you support relatives aren’t going to help.
Have the offer letter ready to send (attach to email) if they ask for it.
Some schools won’t budge. My D2 did this for her top 2 choices, using a higher ranked 3rd school’s offer. One school gave her $10K more. One gave her nothing more.
look up the school’s appeal process. Some schools will tell you what they consider the basis for appeal. If a school will entertain another school’s package, they will tell you that also.
you can find the appeal form for Brandeis here
Just looking at your other posts. I’m not sure I’d want any scrutiny if you didn’t fix that lie on your FAFSA about child support.
Did all,the issues in this thread get resolved? Did you either get NCP waivers or submit the NCP Profile?
Did you amend your FAFSA to include the child support?
@thumper1 @intparent everynthing was resolved, my mother budged and we ended up not having to lie, and we were still able to get NCP waivers luckily.
Ok…so back to your question then! What two schools are these. Folks here can tell you whether they are really peer schools…or not.
Brandeis–the school I prefer most but amherst college gave me a more generous package @thumper1
You can ask Brandeis. Maybe they will meet the Amherst offer. Maybe not. Amherst has deeper pockets than Brandeis does. Not surprising their aid was more generous.